Katherine Fraser leads Scotland to seven-wicket win over Papua New Guinea

Katherine Fraser delivered with both ball and bat as Scotland began their Women's Emerging Nations Trophy campaign with a seven-wicket victory over Papua New Guinea on Thursday. According to BBC Sport, Scotland bowled out their opponents for 93 before reaching 95-3 in 13.1 overs in the United Arab Emirates.

Fraser led the bowling with figures of 3-10, while Kirstie Gordon contributed 2-15. Between them, the pair accounted for half of Papua New Guinea's wickets as the innings ended after 20 overs. That left Scotland needing 94 to turn their opening match of the tournament into a win.

Fraser then made 45 from 29 deliveries, striking seven fours and a six. She had reached 30 after facing just 15 balls, providing an early burst of scoring in the chase. Darcey Carter added eight and captain Kathryn Bryce made 14, before Sarah Bryce and Pippa Sproul finished unbeaten on 12 and 11 respectively.

Speaking to Cricket Scotland in comments carried by the BBC, Fraser said attacking during the powerplay was an approach the opening pair took pride in. She also welcomed the opportunity the competition provided, explaining that Scotland were keen to play as much international cricket as possible. Her contribution helped secure victory with 41 deliveries remaining.

The competition brings together 10 teams in two groups of five, with Scotland placed alongside Sri Lanka, Ireland, Papua New Guinea and hosts UAE in Group A. Durham Cricket's tournament announcement confirmed that the top three teams from each group progress to a Super Six stage, carrying points forward from the opening phase.

The top two teams after the Super Six will contest the final on 25 November. Durham also noted that Scotland finished fourth in the inaugural tournament last year after losing to Thailand on the final day. The leading four sides ended level on points, with hosts Thailand taking the title on net run rate.

Scotland's next match is against Sri Lanka on Friday. Both sides will enter that meeting with an opening victory, after Sri Lanka beat Ireland by 10 wickets, according to the BBC report.